Dropout Prevention and Student Re-engagement Act; create.
The bill empowers the Office of Dropout Prevention to collaborate with local educational agencies (LEAs) to create tailored strategies aimed at reducing dropout rates. It mandates these agencies to adopt and implement detailed student graduation and completion plans while providing technical assistance where necessary. An essential part of the Act is the establishment of a Student Re-engagement Grant Program Fund, which is designed to finance educational services that support student engagement and aid those who have dropped out to re-enroll in school.
House Bill 375, known as the 'Dropout Prevention and Student Re-engagement Act,' seeks to address the persistent issues of high school dropouts in Mississippi. The bill's primary objective is to decrease the state's high school dropout rate while simultaneously increasing graduation rates to a target of 85%. This legislation focuses on bridging the educational gaps that exist among various ethnic and economic demographics, emphasizing students with disabilities who have lower graduation rates. It establishes the Office of Dropout Prevention within the State Department of Education tasked with leading initiatives to meet these goals.
Discussion surrounding HB375 highlighted various points of contention. While proponents advocate for its intended goals of educational improvement and social benefit, critics raise concerns regarding the adequacy of the proposed funding mechanisms and whether the mandated approaches will sufficiently address the systemic issues causing high dropout rates. Additionally, there are apprehensions about the feasibility of implementing robust support structures that are tailored to local contexts, particularly within under-resourced districts. Critics fear that without adequate resources and a clear framework, the Act may not yield the anticipated results.
The legislation is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes provisions for routine evaluation by the Office of Dropout Prevention. The office will analyze the progress of local educational agencies in achieving their set targets for dropout prevention and graduation rate increases. These evaluations aim to ensure accountability and continual improvement in strategies deployed across the state to support at-risk students.